Lowestoft’s vision to create a Land’s End of the east

The coast off Ness Point in Lowestoft.Picture: James Bass (Image: Archant Norfolk © 2015)

But now there are hopes Lowestoft's Ness Point could finally emulate the likes of Land's End and John O'Groats as a vision is unveiled to turn it into a true visitor attraction.

At the moment there is little to celebrate the unique status of the East of England Park area of the coastal town, with much of the site just being open land where fishermen used to dry their nets.

However the town is applying for £980,000 to regenerate the area where the old Beach Village once stood, before it was washed away in the floods of 1953.

It will face stiff competition - 248 applications from across the country were made to the government's Coastal Communities Fund, with £80m worth of projects now competing for £38.1m of funding.

Ness Point, Lowestoft, Suffolk. (Image: ©Archant 2014)

But if it succeeds, it could see the North Beach promenade improved, increased public access and the vast open green space used for activities and events that would attract people to the area.

The bid, which has already succeeded in getting through the first stage of applications, would also help to pay for the restoration of the old fishing net drying racks and other maritime objects.

Lowestoft deputy mayor Mary Rudd said at last night's Waveney District Council cabinet meeting: 'It would be brilliant if we do get this.

'We don't really make enough of us being the most easterly point and we do need to make more of that area.'

Michael Ladd, Waveney District Council's cabinet member for tourism, economic development and rural affairs said: 'We are mindful that funding is always a long and competitive process and that there is still some way to go before funding may be secured.'

A decision is expected in March 2017.

How would you like to see the Ness Point area redeveloped? Email andrew.papworth@archant.co.uk